EFCC Arrests Four Chinese, 101 Nigerians Over Internet Fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested four Chinese nationals and 101 Nigerians over alleged involvement in internet fraud. The suspects were apprehended in a business apartment located in the Gudu area of Abuja.

According to a statement released by the EFCC on Thursday, January 9, 2025, the suspects include 67 males, four of whom are Chinese nationals, and 38 females. They were allegedly involved in a hotel review job scam targeting victims and hotels in Europe and other parts of the world.

The EFCC stated that investigations are ongoing and that the suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of the probe.

EFCC’s Recent Efforts Against Internet Fraud

The EFCC has intensified its fight against internet fraud and corruption in recent months, achieving notable milestones:

• October 2024: Ten individuals were convicted and sentenced to various jail terms and fines for internet-related offences, including fraud, impersonation, and employment scams.
• December 2024: The EFCC carried out its largest single-day crackdown on cryptocurrency and romance scam syndicates, arresting 792 suspects in Lagos State. Among them were 158 foreigners and 634 Nigerians, apprehended during a raid on a single property.

EFCC Internal Reforms and Challenges

The EFCC is also working to address corruption within its ranks. In 2024, the agency dismissed 27 officers for misconduct and fraudulent activities. These dismissals followed recommendations by the EFCC Staff Disciplinary Committee, which were ratified by the commission’s Executive Chairman, Ola Olukoyede.

Additionally, the EFCC is investigating a $400,000 fraud allegation made by an unidentified staff member against a Sectional Head.

The commission reaffirmed its commitment to upholding integrity and ensuring that fraudulent elements within its workforce are removed. Spokesman Dele Oyewale emphasized that the dismissals are part of the EFCC’s effort to maintain credibility in its operations.

The EFCC continues to position itself as a key agency in Nigeria’s fight against corruption and cybercrime, with regular updates on its progress in combating fraudulent activities.